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CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — As anticipation builds for the first game of the season, curiosity on which players will be a star, have a breakout year or slip into a new leadership role increases.

For Austin Peay, the number of experienced but younger players makes this even more intriguing.

Several players are expected to be big contributors, but there are six APSU players fans specifically need to keep an eye on this season.

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Running back Wesley Thomas is stopped by Roderick Owens during the annual Red and White game at Governors Stadium Saturday.
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(Photo: THE LEAF-CHRONICLE/ROBERT SMITH)

Roderick Owens, DB

Owens is the type of player who seems to be everywhere at once, making stops, breaking up passes and getting interceptions. Last year, the senior had three interceptions, posted 61 tackles (third most on the team) and opened the season with seven tackles. He has an ability to make himself a problem for the other team.

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Tight end James Coleman charges through a drill meant to mimic in-game pushing a ball-carrier might receive.(Photo: Autumn Allison/The Leaf-Chronicle)

James Coleman, TE

The junior is an all-around athlete who worked his way into being a reliable target in the Governors’ passing game last season. He earned four starts in 10 appearances and had his first career touchdown at the home finale against Southeast Missouri. His size makes him an intimidating player and his reliability is only increasing based on his spring and fall camp performances.

This running back duo could be a deadly feature of the quicker offensive scheme Austin Peay has been pushing toward all offseason, no matter which of the two earns the starting job. Because Morris and Franklin are essentially a mirror image of each other, it’s impossible to separate them, but it will also be difficult for teams to adjust to the speed both offer. Morris had a breakout season last year, earning multiple 100-yard rushing games and an all-OVC second-team slot. Franklin was a redshirt but has been neck-and-neck competitively with Morris.

Beard became a favorite target and crucial part of the Govs’ passing game last season. He led all Austin Peay receivers with 49 catches, 576 yards and six touchdowns to become the first Gov with more than 500 receiving yards in a season since 2012. This offseason Beard focused on becoming a more physical and consistent player. Those efforts and Beard’s experience will have the junior fill a large leadership role for APSU.

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Defensive back Malik Boynton tries to back off as a Governors' running back falls to the ground during practice on Saturday, Aug. 6.(Photo: Autumn Allison/The Leaf-Chronicle)

Malik Boynton, S

Last season was Boynton’s first on the secondary for the Governors, but he made the transition seamlessly, working his way into the starting role. He had 53 total tackles, 38 of which were unassisted, last season. Boynton is back on the field after dealing with an injury this spring.